How Does OxyContin Work?

OxyContin® (oxycodone ER) is a prescription medication approved to treat moderate to severe pain. It is a strong narcotic painkiller that should not be used to treat mild or short-term pain. Some people may wonder, "How does it work?"

OxyContin tablets are specially designed to release the medication continuously over a 12-hour period. It contains oxycodone, a narcotic, opioid pain reliever. It binds to opioid receptors throughout the body and produces numerous different effects. These effects include (but are not limited to):

Pain relief

Cough suppression

Decreased breathing (slow or shallow breathing)

Certain changes in the circulatory system

Slowing of the digestive tract

Release of histamine (which often causes itching)

Physical dependence.

(Click OxyContin Uses for more information on how the drug works, to learn about possible off-label uses, and to find out if it is approved for use in children.)

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